One issue I'm having with this size pony is that equipment seems to fall on either side of their size range. For instance, mini cart shafts are too short and narrow, while "pony" size carts and harnesses are a bit big. I am looking at customized equipment that specifically fits these odd sized ponies.
Anytime you get a horse (pony) that is basically below Cob-size, custom is the way to go. I haven't met too many off-the-rack pony OR mini harnesses that fit anything. You can get closer when you work with a reputable harness maker, but cheap equipment almost never fits anything and you end up spending more to get it to fit. Been there, done that. Won't do that again.
"Buy quality, cry once"
We just bought a Section C Welsh 12.3 hand pony mare, and we are LOVING her! No concerns about overfacing, plenty of power, but still not
too big (and she moves like a "real" horse.
) Actually, when we show photos of her, we have had friends that have a hard time believing she is only 12.3. We also have both A and B driving minis, and the length of leg, reach, and power is incomparable in the Bs vs the As. And there is
less concern about overfacing with the Bs, but it is still easy to add too much weight, especially in a crummy surface. The small As are great for beginner drivers and kids, but eventually I felt like I "outgrew" them (challenge-wise) and wanted more horse. The difference between driving a small A and a big B is like a Shetland Pony and a Warmblood, especially in obstacles. "Borderline" minis can have characteristics of either As or Bs depending on the individual horse, some are "wimpy" and some have more power. Ponies are a little more to "handle" in facilities, feed, transportation (you need a real trailer, not a "mini" van...
) and actual training. Although I don't believe in treating
any horse like it isn't a 17 hand warmblood, the minis are easier to "deal" with.
Myrna
